Royalty is Two-Faced

Chapter Eleven: The Moment of Silence.

Chapter Eleven

I take a deep breath as I stare at the mirror in front of me, my hair is innocently curled and my fringe is styled to the left of my eye but I can still see. Edryn’s gift is resting on the back of my head, Devin did a great job... He’s just about to finish my make-up, “You’re done.” I stand up nervously, “You look gorgeous.” He smiles and I hug him thankful of his work, he pulls away and pats my head like I’m a child. I can’t help but giggle like one too, he takes my hand and leads me out into the bedroom and I stare out the night-time window. “Here.” He brings out a pair of silver high heels, I bite my lip and Devin slaps my cheek gently. “Don’t ruin your make-up!” He scolds and I nod quickly, “Do you know how to wear these?” I shake my head slowly and bow it with shame.

Devin bites his chapped lips and smirks, “Okay... put them on, I’ll lead you to Edryn.” He bends over and I step into the heels and struggle to stand still, I grip to Devin’s silk black shirt for support as he leads me through the empty halls. “Everyone’s already dancing.” I pout to myself, at the time I hoped that they were all going to wait for me.

I sigh and clutch onto Devin even more, “I’m tired...” I whisper and he smirks.

“This is just the beginning.” I yawn as he lets me know, “Besides you’re going to have dinner with your family.” He smiles and stops, “I shall be escorting you into the ballroom to Edryn, and all eyes will be on you. My lady.” He twirls me on the spot, I close my eyes as we childishly dance in the hallway. But before I knew it, I lose my footing and I collapse in Devin’s arms. I stare into his eyes and realize how green they are, “Are you alright?” He inches his face and it’s puzzling to read as he licks his lips subtly and helps me stand up straight. I can’t give him any response right now, it’s embarrassing as a blush reaches my cheeks. “Azure.” He grabs my bicep and twists me around even closer and he stares into my eyes and kisses my cheek delicately, “We are colleagues... You belong with Edryn. As much as I hope it was different, I will get over you. I will be heartbroken but I am your book of secrets, I am your personal butler.”  I pull away and bow at him.

“Of course, I-I-I... Can we keep walking please?” He looks up and nods at me and we move quickly, “Devin... it’s hard.” I whisper at him and he glances at me.

“What is?” He asks sternly and I try to keep a straight face.

I fiddle with my gown, “Arctic tried to pull the same thing, but I pushed him away... And I’ve loved Arctic even more than I love Edryn...”

Devin narrows his eyes, “Here’s a secret, want to know why I’m your butler?” I nod hoping for some explanation, “Admit it, I’m good-looking and your age.” I nod again slowly but still feel guilty, “Marie wants me to test your faithfulness.” My jaw drops and he hugs me closely, “Now you pass, oh and.” He digs into his pocket and reveals a blue velvet box, “Here, your call-ring.” He reveals the silver band that Arctic showed me before.

I cover my mouth feigning shock, “Wait! Your asking me to marry you!?”

Devin narrows his eyes in bemusement, “Yes Azure, now let me get onto the ground.” He kneels and I giggle to myself, “Lady Azure Crys, will you marry lil’ ol’ me and hide it from Edryn?” His grin is contagious, I nod and laugh hysterically as I jump into his arms and he twirls me on the spot. “No but seriously,” He pushes me away gently, “This is to-“

I cut him off and smile, “Arctic already told me.” I grab the ring and Devin smirks at me impressed.

He looks up and bites his lip, “Come on, we’ll be late.”

He grabs my hand and we approach the door the sound of classical music is dim outside, in front is Phillip and someone else who I haven’t seen before. Phillip nods at me in greetings and raises his wrist to his mouth, “They’re here.” He nods again and they stand still, “They’re making an announcement.”